White Elephant Meaning & Symbolism (Majesty and Purity)

The white elephant is a symbol of gentleness, majesty, protection, and purity. As well as being considered a symbol of success and a calm mind. The historic symbolism of the white elephant is related to fertility, and many cultures perform rituals around these gentle giants. 

The white elephant is one of the most symbolic creatures in many cultures and religions, particularly in Hindu culture in which the elephant is ingrained in many traditional stories and legends.

The white elephant will likely appear to you in a dream, as they are incredibly rare to see in the wild. It will appear when you need it the most and give you a powerful message.

It is also common to see a white elephant when deep in a meditative state. Seeing the white elephant will make you feel connected and grounded to your higher self.

White Elephant Symbolism

Remember that symbolism is subjective. The below are examples of possible interpretations only, and may not be the correct interpretations for you and your situation.

1. Purity 

The white elephant is associated closely with purity. Purity means different things to different people, but the white elephant is mostly considered to symbolize a pure heart and mind.

Being pure of heart means you are loving and open to meeting and being around new people and things. You likely love animals and enjoy looking after babies.

White smoke is also associated with purity.

You are also most likely greatly empathetic and generous to those less fortunate than you. 

Having a pure heart is something that is often overlooked as a weakness, but know that by spreading kindness and love, you will make a significant difference to others.

The white elephant is there to show you that it is okay to be kind, and you can still look out for yourself whilst caring for those who need help. 

2. Calm Mind

If the white elephant in your dream appears stressed or erratic, it could be a sign that you are keeping too much stress and tension in your mind. This manifests itself as anxiety and insomnia.

The white elephant is often linked to meditation and other shamanic practices. It is often used as a home decoration or studio decoration for yoga and other mind and body practices.

By visualizing a white elephant when meditating, you will feel guided and comforted by its presence. The white elephant will often appear in a dream after a guided meditation session and is a symbol of a clear and peaceful mind. 

Try to get your feelings and thoughts down, through methods like journaling or speaking to a friend. Finding stillness and calm through yoga, walking, meditation, and affirmations can help you lower your stress levels and anxiety.

Acknowledge the white elephant and find ways to clear and calm your mind. 

3. Fertility 

It is said that the night before the Buddha was born, his mother had a vision of a white elephant holding a lotus flower in its trunk. This resulted in the white elephant becoming the vision of fertility and prosperity.

Many people worship the white elephant whilst trying to conceive or during pregnancy, hoping that it will result in a healthy pregnancy and baby. 

If you have been trying to conceive and it has not been working, you may see a white elephant come to you in a dream. This is a symbol to hold on to hope, and that your dream family is still within reach.

Remember that having children is not always possible in the traditional way, so keep your mind and options open. Fertility treatments, adoption, and fostering are all possible avenues to making your dream of parenthood come true. 

4. Protection

Many people have had a vision of a white elephant embracing them with its trunk whilst deep in meditation. This is a symbol of protection. Elephants are incredibly large animals, but also very gentle-natured and protective.

If you have been feeling stressed, scared, or trapped the white elephant may come to you in a way that feels calming and nurturing. 

The white elephant is there to guide you on your path, and protect you from any negative energies or people. Trust in this guide and know that you are headed in the right direction, with a powerful protector by your side. 

If you have been feeling scared or anxious, the white elephant may appear to you in a dream. If the white elephant is walking alongside you in your dream or using its trunk to embrace or hold you, it is to let you know that you are not alone.

You are blessed with the guidance of the beautiful white elephant, who will not let anything bad happen to you. 

5. Gentleness

The elephant, although large and intimidating in size, is an incredibly gentle giant. If the white elephant comes to you in a dream, it is a sign that you need to embrace your gentle nature and be kind to those around you.

Many people try to deter gentle and kind people, mistaking their gentle nature for weakness. No one would call an elephant weak, so make sure no one is taking advantage of your gentle nature.

The white elephant will appear to you in a dream to let you know that it is okay to be gentle, not everyone has to be an intimidating or strong predator type.

There is a place for gentleness in the world, and more of it is needed. Be proud of who you are, and embrace your inner white elephant. 

6. Majesty

The white elephant is a majestic creature and a sign of one’s majesty and grace. Historically, royalty and nobility received elephants as gifts.

This was due to their impressive nature, and white elephants in particular were highly sought after.

By seeing a white elephant in a dream it is a symbol to be at one with your majestic side. Do not let people dull your personality and be authentically you. 

Some people may refer to you as “high maintenance” but know that as long as you are not hurting anyone, you have every right to be your true authentic self.

The white elephant is symbolizing that it is okay to stand out and be slightly different from the rest. There is a time and a place for you, and there will be people who truly embrace you and see your value. 

Conclusion

White elephants may be interpreted as a symbol of gentleness, calmness, and majesty.

If a white elephant appears to you, it may be a sign that your kind and gentle spirit is having a positive impact on the world around you.

Read Next: Elephant Symbolism Explained